Best Grilling Recipes: 3 Alternatives to the Classic Burger

Creative burger recipes that veer from the traditional ground beef topped with a slice of American cheese. Here are a few tasty versions I was lucky enough to sample all in one weekend:

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1. Buffalo Burgers

My friend's buffalo burgers are legendary; the meat is so gamy and flavorful on its own, you don't need a lot of additions. Ground buffalo (or bison) is simply seasoned with salt and pepper, then grilled and topped with sharp cheddar cheese.

2. Turkey Burgers

The trick to making a moist turkey burger? Use half white meat and half dark. It's not as healthy as an all-white version, but for a once-in-a-while special occasion, it's okay to cheat. My same friend who makes the buffalo burgers also makes a killer turkey burger -- ground turkey (half white/half dark), diced shallots and garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.